Gilfach Nature Reserve

and Visitor Centre

Tel: 01597 870301 ~ Fax: 01597 870298

Situated
in a
beautiful setting at the confluence of the Marteg River with the River Wye in
the Cambrian Mountains of Mid Wales, Gilfach is locally unique because of its
wide variety of habitats: high moorland to enclosed meadow; oak woodland to
rocky upland river. Because of this variety the farm supports a tremendous abundance
of birds and animals within a comparatively small area. This richness of wildlife
has adapted to living in the various habitats created over the centuries through
the practice of traditional farming.

The
farmyard, with its Welsh longhouse, is central to the reserve. The house is
a traditional building in Wales, developed over many centuries from a wooden
cruck-framed medieval hall. The Gilfach Longhouse
forms the perfect complement to the Education and Visitor Centre which has been
created through the conversion of the 18th century stone barn opposite.
The Centre utilises a 'high-tech' approach to the interpretation of the wildlife
of the Reserve. Nest-boxes fitted with cameras link to a monitor system in the
Centre, as does pre-recorded footage of Gilfach's badger and other mammal activity.
A gift shop and restaurant area, in addition to other picnic sites, complete
the facilities which are accessible to wheelchairs.

Activities:

Birdwatching (including
Red Kite, Dipper and Pied Flycatcher) and walking (on a well laid-out network
of sign-posted and waymarked trails).

Disabled Access:

To Centre, toilets
and on a purpose-built trail.

Events Programme:

Includes badger
watching; guided walks; evening classes.

Schools and Groups:

By arrangement.
Teaching rooms are available as your base for a self-led or for a planned and
guided visit. Key Stage 1 upwards: Environment / History / Geography (packs
available). Scout and Guide activities arranged.

Opening hours and other information:

April
- September:

Friday -
Monday, 10.00 - 5.00

April,
July and August + school half-terms:

Daily, 10.00
- 5.00

Directions:

Gilfach is just
off the A470, seven miles from Llangurig and two miles from Rhayader. Follow
the brown Nature Reserve signs. The Visitor Centre is one mile across
the Reserve.